Character footwear remains an essential tool for dancers working across musical theatre, commercial performance, and studio training. With increasing expectations around comfort, versatility, and aesthetic appeal, brands are continuing to refine designs that support both technique and stage presence. The latest offering from Capezio, the 3” Shanel Character Shoe, reflects this evolution, combining a classic Broadway silhouette with performance-focused construction.
The Shanel Character Shoe is a shoe designed in musical theatre tradition, drawing on inspiration from traditional stage footwear while incorporating contemporary refinements. A contoured 3-inch heel provides the elevated line associated with the style, while maintaining balance for choreography requiring directional changes, stylised walks, kicks, and turns.
The shoe’s Y-strap construction contributes to both visual polish and functional support, offering a secure fit that accommodates demanding rehearsal schedules and performance environments.
“Designed to perform night after night, the Shanel is built to move with you – whether in rehearsal or under stage lights,” shares Jamila Cherif, Senior Product Designer and Developer.
The material choices that support longevity and comfort is what makes this shoe stand out from the crowd. Drawing on findings from multiple tests, Cherif notes, “In the testing phase, there were many comments on the superior stability and security of the heel compared to competitor shoes. Testers also mentioned how impressed they were with the performance of the shoes from first wear. They were ready to dance in from unboxing, very easy to break in.”
Constructed with a full-grain Nappa leather upper, the Shanel Character Shoe prioritises durability alongside flexibility. The leather’s ability to soften and adapt over time allows for a personalised fit, a feature often valued by dancers navigating extended rehearsal periods.
Additional comfort elements include a cushioned insole designed to support impact and reduce fatigue, as well as a rounded toe box that promotes natural foot positioning without restricting movement.
“After the success of our 2.5″, we’re taking it higher. The new Shanel Character Shoe in 3″ gives dancers the same handcrafted quality, comfort, and stability – now with the extra height so many have been asking for,” highlights Cherif.
The heel’s balanced structure further enhances stability, supporting dancers working across varied stage surfaces. Functionality for articulation and control are at the heart of the design. A soft suede sole provides the traction and glide necessary for character and musical theatre technique. This construction supports controlled turns, smooth transitions, and expressive articulation, enabling dancers to move confidently between stylised performance and technical choreography.
Such versatility positions the Shanel Character Shoe as a practical option for a range of performance contexts, including musical theatre, ballroom-inspired choreography, cabaret work, and commercial dance settings.
Available in adult sizes 5.5-11 (US street shoe size – medium width), the shoe is designed with a straightforward fitting approach, with dancers typically beginning with their street shoe size as a baseline. Colour options in black and chai allow for flexibility in costuming and casting requirements.
As dance continues to intersect with theatrical storytelling and commercial performance, character shoes are increasingly expected to deliver both aesthetic refinement and technical support. The Shanel Character Shoe responds to and reflects this shift, integrating design elements that prioritise comfort, durability, and movement without sacrificing stage-ready elegance.
The introduction of the 3” Shanel Character Shoe highlights ongoing innovation within character footwear. By merging Broadway-inspired styling with contemporary comfort features and performance functionality, the shoe offers dancers a versatile option suited to both rehearsal and stage contexts.
For more information and to shop the 3” Shanel Character Shoe and other Capezio products, head to www.capezio.au.
By Renata Ogayar of Dance Informa.
Sponsored content.
Share this:
